Heuristics for 3d and 6d touch gesture touch parameter calculations for high-dimensional touch parameter (hdtp) user interfaces

ABSTRACT

A method for determining the position of touches on a touch sensor is described including receiving values from a touch sensor, converting the values to binary data, identifying one or more contiguous touched regions, extracting parameters from each touched region that related to the shape and location of each region, and determining the validity of each region. The method also includes obtaining data from the contiguous touched regions at a later time and linking the data of the two times for the touched regions to create a series of temporal parameters. The data for the temporal parameters is filtered to remove noise, and the position of the touches is determined from the temporal parameters.

COPYRIGHT & TRADEMARK NOTICES

A portion of the disclosure of this patent document may contain material, which is subject to copyright protection. Certain marks referenced herein may be common law or registered trademarks of the applicant, the assignee or third parties affiliated or unaffiliated with the applicant or the assignee. Use of these marks is for providing an enabling disclosure by way of example and shall not be construed to exclusively limit the scope of the disclosed subject matter to material associated with such marks.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

This present invention relates to High-Dimensional Touch Parameter (HDTP) user interfaces, and in part particular to a method of determining the position and pose of a finger tip or other user contact with a touch sensor.

High-Dimensional Touch Parameter (HDTP) user interfaces have been taught in a number of issued patents and pending patent applications. In particular, pending U.S. Ser. No. 13/038,365 (“Touch-Based User Interfaces Employing Artificial Neural Networks for HDTP Parameter and Symbol Derivation”), pending U.S. Ser. No. 13/180,512 (“Sequential Classification Recognition of Gesture Primitives and Window-Based Parameter Smoothing For High Dimensional Touchpad (HDTP) User Interfaces”), and pending U.S. Ser. No. 13/544,960 (“HDTP Gesture Recognition”) describe example systems and methods for use of Artificial Neural Networks (ANNs) for use in gesture classification and recognition, and several of items listed above provide various approaches to 3D and 6D touch parameter measurements for High-Dimensional Touch Parameter (HDTP) user interfaces. Additionally, pending U.S. Ser. No. 11/761,978 (“High Parameter-Count Touchpad Controller”), pending U.S. Ser. No. 12/418,605 (“Multi-Parameter Extraction Algorithms for Tactile Images from User Interface Tactile Sensor Arrays”), pending U.S. Ser. No. 13/038,372 (“Curve-fitting Approach to HDTP Parameter Extraction”) and pending U.S. Ser. No. 12/541,948 (“Sensors, Algorithms and Applications for a High Dimensional Touchpad”) describe example systems and methods for calculation of estimated finger roll and pitch angles from measured tactile sensor data.

The present invention provides additional example systems and methods for calculation of estimated finger roll and pitch angles from measured tactile sensor data and example heuristics for 3D and 6D touch gesture recognition which, for example, can be used in place of Artificial Neural Networks (ANNs) for 3D and 6D touch gesture recognition. The present invention relates to additional examples of touch parameter measurements for High-Dimensional Touch Parameter (HDTP) user interfaces.

SUMMARY

Features and advantages of the invention will be set forth in the description which follows, and in part will be apparent from the description, or may be learned by practice of the invention. The objectives and other advantages of the invention will be realized and attained by the structure particularly pointed out in the written description and claims hereof as well as the appended drawings.

A method for determining the position of touches on a touch sensor is described including receiving values from a touch sensor, converting the values to binary data, identifying one or more contiguous touched regions, extracting parameters from each touched region that related to the shape and location of each region, and determining the validity of each region. The method also includes obtaining data from the contiguous touched regions at a later time and linking the data of the two times for the touched regions to create a series of temporal parameters. The data for the temporal parameters is filtered to remove noise, and the position of the touches is determined from the temporal parameters.

The contiguous touched regions can be approximated by ellipses whose major and minor axes can be determined. The ellipses can be compared with the contiguous touched regions to identify excess data or deficient data.

Yaw angles can be determined for each of the first and the second contiguous touched regions from the filtered temporal series of parameters. The yaw angles can further be constrained to a predetermined range of angles. The ellipses can be characterized by fitting parabolas aligned with the major and minor axes.

For purposes of summarizing, certain aspects, advantages, and novel features are described herein. Not all such advantages may be achieved in accordance with any one particular embodiment. Thus, the disclosed subject matter may be embodied or carried out in a manner that achieves or optimizes one advantage or group of advantages without achieving all advantages as may be taught or suggested herein.

These and other embodiments will also become readily apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description of the embodiments having reference to the attached figures, the invention not being limited to any particular embodiment disclosed.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The above and other aspects, features and advantages of the present invention will become more apparent upon consideration of the following description of preferred embodiments taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawing figures.

FIGS. 1 a-1 f show six independently adjustable degrees of freedom of touch from a single finger that can be simultaneously measured by HDTP technology.

FIG. 2, shows general ways in which two or more of these independently adjustable degrees of freedom adjusted at once.

FIG. 3, depicts two-finger multi-touch postures or gestures from the many that can be readily recognized by HTDP technology.

FIG. 4 depicts the main loop of an algorithm as provided for by the invention.

FIGS. 5 a and 5 b show a flowchart of an algorithm for detection of the motion of a previously identified contiguous region of tactile contact (“blob”) in a tactile image.

FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing an algorithm for segmentation.

FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing an algorithm for using projections to extract features of a touched region.

FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing an algorithm for initiating the tracking of a new contiguous region of tactile contact (“blob”) in a tactile image.

FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing an algorithm for, among other things, merging parameters associated with and/or calculated from a newly found contiguous region of tactile contact (“found blob”) in a tactile image with those of a previously tracked contiguous region of tactile contact (“tracked blob”) in the tactile image.

FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing an algorithm for filtering of data as provided for by the invention and, for example, as employed to filter various parameter streams as called out throughout the example arrangement depicted in FIG. 10.

FIGS. 11 a and 11 b show a flowchart of an algorithm for a parameter calculation—in this case the finger yaw angle.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXAMPLE EMBODIMENTS

In the following, numerous specific details are set forth to provide a thorough description of various embodiments. Certain embodiments may be practiced without these specific details or with some variations in detail. In some instances, certain features are described in less detail so as not to obscure other aspects. The level of detail associated with each of the elements or features should not be construed to qualify the novelty or importance of one feature over the others.

In the following description, reference is made to the accompanying drawing figures which form a part hereof, and which show by way of illustration specific embodiments of the invention. It is to be understood by those of ordinary skill in this technological field that other embodiments may be utilized, and structural, electrical, as well as procedural changes may be made without departing from the scope of the present invention.

Example Hand Contact Measurements and Features Provided by High-Dimensional Touch Parameter (HDTP) User Interface Technology

FIGS. 1 a-1 f illustrate six independently adjustable degrees of freedom of touch from a single finger that can be simultaneously measured by the HDTP technology. The depiction in these figures is from the side of the touchpad. FIGS. 1 a-1 c show actions of positional change (amounting to applied pressure in the case of FIG. 1 c) while FIGS. 1 d-1 f show actions of angular change. Each of these can be used to control a user interface parameter, allowing the touch of a single fingertip to control up to six simultaneously-adjustable quantities in an interactive user interface.

Parameters for each of the six degrees of freedom can be obtained from operations on a collection of sums involving the geometric location and tactile measurement value of each tactile measurement sensor. Of the six parameters, the left-right geometric center, forward-back geometric center, and clockwise-counterclockwise yaw rotation can be obtained from binary threshold image data. The average downward pressure, roll, and pitch parameters are in some embodiments beneficially calculated from gradient (multi-level) image data. One remark is that because binary threshold image data is sufficient for the left-right geometric center, forward-back geometric center, and clockwise-counterclockwise yaw rotation parameters, these also can be discerned for flat regions of rigid non-pliable objects, and thus the HDTP technology thus can be adapted to discern these three parameters from flat regions with striations or indentations of rigid non-pliable objects.

These ‘Position Displacement’ parameters FIGS. 1 a-1 c can be realized by various types of unweighted averages computed across the blob of one or more of each the geometric location and tactile measurement value of each above-threshold measurement in the tactile sensor image. The pivoting rotation FIG. 1 d can be calculated from unweighted statistical moments; alternatively a high-performance adapted eigenvector method taught in U.S. Pat. No. 8,170,346 can be used. The last two angle (i.e., finger “tilt”) parameters, pitch and roll FIGS. 1 e and 1 f, can be calculated via heuristics disclosed in this patent; alternatively they can be determined by real-time curve fitting taught in pending U.S. patent application Ser. Nos. 13/038,372 and 13/544,960, as well as by performing calculations on various types of weighted averages and moments calculated from blob measurements and other methods (for example, such as those taught in pending U.S. patent application Ser. Nos. 13/009,845 and 61/522,239.

Each of the six parameters portrayed in FIGS. 1 a-1 f can be measured separately and simultaneously in parallel. FIG. 2 suggests general ways in which two or more of these independently adjustable degrees of freedom adjusted at once.

The HDTP technology provides for multiple points of contact, these days referred to as “multi-touch.” FIG. 3 demonstrates a few two-finger multi-touch postures or gestures from the hundreds that can be readily recognized by HTDP technology. HTDP technology can also be configured to recognize and measure postures and gestures involving three or more fingers, various parts of the hand, the entire hand, multiple hands, etc. Accordingly, the HDTP technology can be configured to measure areas of contact separately, recognize shapes, fuse measures or pre-measurement data so as to create aggregated measurements, and other operations.

Additionally, U.S. Pat. No. 6,570,078 and U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/418,605 discuss the handling, recognition, and parameter extraction from tactile measurement data resulting from contact by three or more fingers and/or contact with other parts of the hand.

Example Systems and Methods for Calculation of Estimated 6D Finger Touch Parameters from Measured Tactile Sensor Data

Various approaches can be taken to the implementation of algorithms implementing aspects of the present invention. For the purpose of illustration, some example definitions of concepts, structures, functions, and variables are provided below. These are meant to be illustrative and are no way to be taken as limiting; many alternatives are possible and are anticipated by the invention.

To begin, three opening representative definitions are provided below, followed by additional commentary:

-   -   Image—the instantaneous, scanned, sampled, or otherwise         temporally captured output of a touch sensor array. Images can         be represented by an array of values, each value representing         the contact and/or degree of proximity of a user finger to the         touch sensor array. In general, the invention can be applied         directly or can be adapted to a wide variety of touch sensors         including capacitive, resistive, pressure, and optical. In all         cases, the sensor provides an array of data points that can be         considered an image. For example the array could be structured         as 64 columns and 48 rows, although clearly the provided example         and other implementation approaches can utilize other size         arrays. In this description the terms “image” and “tactile         image” are used interchangeably.     -   Pixel—the image data consists of an array of values. Each value         in the array is considered a pixel. The possible range of values         for a pixel depends upon the specific tactile sensor used.     -   Touch Region—the region of touch and/or proximity made by one         finger in contact with the touch sensor.     -   Blob—the related concept of any connected region in the image         that is a candidate to represent a touch region or portion of a         touch region. A blob could also occur as a result of noise, a         defect in the touch sensor, contact with the sensor by something         other than the intended or anticipated portion of the user's         finger.

A touch region or associated finger proximity can be signified by larger values than those provided by rest of the touch sensor. Alternatively, smaller values can be used instead to signify a touch region or associated finger proximity, involving minor modifications to the example.

Additionally, the image coordinates assume the common (e.g., television) origin in the upper left hand corner. That is, the X coordinate runs from left to right, and the Y coordinate runs from top to bottom. Coordinates could easily be adapted to work with any orthogonal coordinate system with an origin in any location and axes that are oriented in any direction.

Further, the touch sensor provides non-binary values in the image array. However, the described invention uses thresholding to converts the non-binary image to a binary image, and many aspects will operate with a binary image provided by a touch sensor.

For example, pixels in the tactile image may have values in the range of 0 to 255. A binary image is created by using a threshold value between 0 and 255. Pixel values that are equal to or above the threshold are considered indicative of a touch (representing light) and are converted to a first predetermined value. Pixel values below the threshold are considered indicative of no touch (the background or dark) and are converted to a second predetermined value. In the present embodiment, the first predetermined value is 255 and the second predetermined value is 0. However, other predetermined values, such as 1 and 0, can also be used.

Blobs can be categorized by the following parameters and variables:

TABLE 1 Blob Parameters Parameter Description Area area of the blob/touch region in pixels X centroid pixels from the left edge Y centroid pixels from the top edge Major axis length of the equivalent ellipse in pixels Minor axis length of the equivalent ellipse in pixels Angle angle of the equivalent ellipse major axis in radians Elongation ratio of the major axis length to minor axis length Major skew the 3rd statistical moment for the touch region along the direction of the major axis Major kurtosis the 4th statistical moment for the touch region along the direction of the major axis Minor skew the 3rd statistical moment for the touch region along the direction of the minor axis Minor kurtosis the 4th statistical moment for the touch region along the direction of the minor axis Quad data the difference in pixel count between the actual touch region and its equivalent ellipse; includes both excess pixels (touch region pixels that extend beyond the equivalent ellipse) and deficient pixels (areas of the equivalent ellipse that extend beyond the actual touch region) Count a count of the number of pixels in the touch region boundary Edge points X and Y coordinates of edge points

TABLE 2 Blob Variables Varaible Description ImageNumber the number of the last image merged into the blob. If a series of blobs from a new image does merge a touch region into this blob, the ImageNumber will not be updated and the blob eliminated from the list of tracked blobs ImageCount the number of images with blobs that have been merged into this blob object. It is used to manage low-pass filtering of the blob data. StartTime The time stamp of the image that initiated the blob object. ElapsedTime The time from StartTime to the time stamp of the current image. AllValid indicates that all parameters now have useful filtered information. It is possible for different parameters to have different filtering time constants; so, some filtered parameters may become valid before others LocalValid indicates that the X centroid, Y centroid, and Angle parameters all have valid filtered values AreaValid indicates that the area parameter has a valid filtered value Area the area, in pixels, of the last touch region incorporated into the CBlob object FilteredArea the area, in pixels, that has been low-pass filtered BaseArea the value of FilteredArea when AreaValid first becomes true ValidX indicates that the X centroid has a valid filtered value Xcentroid the X centroid, in pixels from the left edge of the image, of the last touch region incorporated into the CBlob object FilteredXcent the X centroid, in pixels from the left edge, that has been low-pass filtered BaseX the value of FilteredXcent when ValidX becomes true LocalX the X coordinate of the touch region adjusted for yaw angle; based on FilteredXcent and FilteredYcent as well as the yaw angle LocalXchange the latest change in the LocalX parameter; used for determining roll angle ValidY indicates that the Y centroid has a valid filtered value Ycentroid the Y centroid, in pixels from the top edge of the image, of the last touch region incorporated into the CBlob object FilteredYcent the Y centroid, in pixels from the top edge, that has been low-pass filtered BaseY the value of FilteredYcent when ValidY becomes true LocalY the Y coordinate of the touch region adjusted for yaw angle; based on FilteredXcent and FilteredYcent as well as the yaw angle LocalYchange the latest change in the LocalY parameter; used for determining pitch angle MajorAxis the length, in pixels, of the major axis of the equivalent ellipse for the latest touch region incorporated into the CBlob object MinorAxis the length, in pixels, of the minor axis of the equivalent ellipse for the latest touch region incorporated into the CBlob object ValidElong indicates that the elongation has a valid filtered value Elongation the elongation of the equivalent ellipse, major axis length divided by minor axis length, for the latest touch region incorporated into the CBlob object FilteredElong the elongation that has been low-pass filtered BaseElong the value of FilteredElong when ValidElong becomes true AngleValid indicates that the angle of the equivalent ellipse (FilteredAngle) has valid low-pass filtered data Angle angle of the equivalent ellipse major axis for the latest touch region incorporated into the CBlob object. CorAngle the Angle above adjusted to the range of ±45°. FilteredAngle the variable CorAngle that has been low-pass filtered. BaseAngle the value of FilteredAngle when AngleValid becomes true. PreviousAngle the value of Angle for the previous touch region added to the CBlob object. It is used to insure that there is no abrupt change in angle that exceeds 45 degrees. AdjustAngle tracks angle adjustment in increments of 90°. AdjustCorrection similar to AdjustAngle above. ParabDistValid indicates that the parameters characterizing the parabolas fit to the touch region have valid filtered data. A1 the coefficient of the fit parabola to one side of the touch region for the latest touch region incorporated into the CBlob object. FiltA1 the coefficient A1 that has been low-pass filtered. BaseA1 the value of FiltA1 when ParabDistValid became true. B1 the coefficient of the fit parabola to one side of the touch region for the latest touch region incorporated into the CBlob object. FiltB1 the coefficient B1 that has been low-pass filtered. BaseB1 the value of FiltB1 when ParabDistValid became true. C1 the coefficient of the fit parabola to one side of the touch region for the latest touch region incorporated into the CBlob object. FiltC1 the coefficient C1 that has been low-pass filtered. BaseC1 the value of FiltC1 when ParabDistValid became true. A2 the coefficient of the fit parabola to the second side of the touch region for the latest touch region incorporated into the CBlob object. FiltA2 the coefficient A2 that has been low-pass filtered. BaseA2 the value of FiltA2 when ParabDistValid became true. B2 the coefficient of the fit parabola to the second side of the touch region for the latest touch region incorporated into the CBlob object. FiltB2 the coefficient B2 that has been low-pass filtered. BaseB2 the value of FiltB2 when ParabDistValid became true. C2 the coefficient of the fit parabola to the second side of the touch region for the latest touch region incorporated into the CBlob object. FiltC2. the coefficient C2 that has been low-pass filtered BaseC2 the value of FiltC2 when ParabDistValid became true. ParabDist1 the distance from the centroid for the parabola fit to one side of the touch region for the latest touch region incorporated into the CBlob object. FiltDist1 the low-pass filtered value for ParabDist1. BaseDist1 the value of FiltDist1 when ParabDistValid became true. ParabDist2 the distance from the centroid for the parabola fit to the second side of the touch region for the latest touch region incorporated into the CBlob object. FiltDist2 the low-pass filtered value for ParabDist2. BaseDist2 the value of FiltDist2 when ParabDistValid became true. SumCurvature the sum of the curvatures for the two parabolas fit to the touch region for the latest touch region incorporated in the CBlob object. FiltCurvature the low-pass filtered value for SumCurvature. BaseCurvature the value of FiltCurvature when ParabDistValid became true. CurveRatio the ratio of the curvatures of the two parabolas for the latest touch region incorporated in the CBlob object. FiltCurveRatio the low-pass filtered value for CurveRatio. BaseCirveRatio the value of FiltCurveRatio when ParabDistValid became true. ValidMajorSkew indicates the value of FiltMajSkew has valid data. MajorSkew the value for the touch region skew in the major axis direction for the latest touch region incorporated into the CBlob object. FiltMajSkew the low-pass filtered value for MajorSkew. BaseMajSkew the value of FiltMajSkew when ValidMajorSkew became true. ValidMajKurtosis Indicates the value of FiltMajKurtosis has valid data. MajorKurtosis the value for the touch region kurtosis in the major axis direction for the latest touch region incorporated into the CBlob object. FiltMajKurtosis the low-pass filtered value for MajorKurtosis. BaseMajKurtosis the value of FiltMajKurtosis when ValidMajKurtosis became true. ValidMinrSkew Indicates the value of FiltMinrSkew has valid data. MinorSkew the value for the touch region skew in the minor axis direction for the latest touch region incorporated into the CBlob object. FiltMinrSkew the low-pass filtered value for MinorSkew. BaseMinrSkew the value of FiltMinrSkew when ValidMinrSkew became true. ValidMinrKurtosis indicates the value of FiltMinrKurtosis has valid data. MinorKurtosis the value for the touch region kurtosis in the minor axis direction for the latest touch region incorporated into the CBlob object. FiltMinrKurtosis the low-pass filtered value for MinorKurtosis. BaseMinrKurtosis the value of FiltMinrKurtosis when ValidMinrKurtosis became true. RollAngle the current calculated roll angle for the touch region. PitchAngle the current calculated pitch angle for the touch region. YawValid indicates the yaw angle is valid. Currently identical to AngleValid above. YawAngle the current calculated yaw angle. Quad_Deficient_Valid an array of four boolean values indicating that the filtered values for the deficient pixels for each quadrant is valid. All four of these values are set simultaneously. The existence of four values is used to facilitate the common low-pass filtering routine. Quad_Excess_Valid an array of four Boolean values indicating that the filtered values for the excess pixels for each quadrant of the touch region is valid. The values are all set simultaneously, and, in effect are the same as the values for Quad_Deficient_Valid values. The existence of this duplication facilitates the common low-pass filtering routine. Quad an array of four structures, each with two values. One value is for deficient pixels and the other value is for excess pixels. The four array elements represent the four quadrants of the touch region. These are the values for the latest touch region incorporated into the CBlob object. FilteredQuad low-pass filtered values for the Quad parameter above. BaseQuad the values for FilteredQuad when Quad_Deficient_Valid and Quad_Excess_Valid become true.

The above parameters and variables are illustrative examples and are not limiting; many alternatives are possible and are anticipated by the invention.

Algorithm Methods, Systems, and Implementations

Referring now to FIGS. 4-11, numbered step blocks are provided and are referred to as “steps” in the descriptions that follow.

An algorithm can be configured to detect some error conditions such as conditions that should not occur and are not part of a basic algorithm. For example, the routines can return an error code that can cause the display of an error message. Alternatively, an algorithm can be configured to terminate execution. The description below does not include a description of these error conditions, their detection, or the error messages because these conditions are not part of the basic algorithm functions.

Main Loop Procedure

FIG. 4 depicts a series of steps that form a Main Loop of an algorithm.

Referring to FIGS. 5 a, 5 b, and 6, Steps 6 through 10 below represent a main loop. The loop represented by steps 6 through 10 would become an infinite loop and remain active until the touch sensor is shut down. When the software is directly coupled to a separately scanned touch sensor, only step 6 would be present.

In FIGS. 5 a, 5 b, and 6, an image file is cited, and this file can be a traditional file or serve as a queue (such as a ring buffer) serviced by image data updated provided in real-time or near-real-time by a touch sensor array. Alternatively, the file can be a stream provided in real-time or near-real-time by a touch sensor array.

Accordingly, prior to Step 6, Step 1 opens a file (or alternatively opens a queue or queries, samples a stream, etc.). Step 2 prompts the algorithm to test for a successful opening of the file If the opening of the file was not successful, the algorithm can provide an error indication, as depicted in Step 3. If the opening of the file was successful, Step 3 is skipped in favor of Step 4, which indicates ending the activity. Step 5 directs the algorithm to open a datalog file and write the header information.

Again, Steps 6 through 10 below represent the main loop which can be arranged (as it is here) in the form of an infinite loop. Each invocation of Step 6 can prompt an indication or display of status, providing the image number being processed. Most implementations will not require a display of this status information.

Step 7 finds the motions of the touch regions in the image. This is expanded upon in FIGS. 5 a and 5 b. Step 8 indicates that for each touch region found in the image, the algorithm will write the motions detected into the datalog file. Step 9 prompts retrieval of the next image from the datalog file. Step 10 directs for the algorithm to loop to Step 6 in the case another image is available.

If another image is not available or is determined to not exist, the algorithm continues to Step 11. Step 11 prompts an update of the status once the analysis has ended. Step 12 closes the image and datalog file.

Finding Blob Motion

FIGS. 5 a, 5, and 6 depict an algorithm detecting the motion of a previously identified contiguous region of tactile contact (“blob”) in a tactile image. Step 13 starts the procedure.

In Step 14 the image file is read. The image can be in non-binary-value form, i.e., each data value in the image ranges in possible value from zero to some maximum value (e.g., 255). Step 15 saves the time the image was acquired for use in time-stamping and in later-described filtering operations. Image values are preferably arranged on a regular square grid. However, it should be obvious to one skilled in the art that other grid patterns such as rectangles, triangles, and hexagons are possible and can be accommodated with changes known to those skilled in the art.

Step 16 prompts the algorithm to calculate a threshold for the image using Otsu's method. The example “Find Threshold function” can for example employ Otsu's method, an image processing algorithm to automatically determine an image threshold by calculating the optimum threshold separating two classes of values in a histogram distribution so that the combined intra-class variance is minimized. In Step 17, the threshold is tested to insure that it is high enough over a minimum reference value. In the case that the threshold is below a minimum set point, Step 18 prompts the algorithm to delete all blobs (touch regions) being tracked. Step 19 directs the algorithm to exit the routine once the image is empty and no blobs (touch regions) remain to be tracked. If the threshold is deemed adequate, Steps 18 and 19 can be skipped in favor of Step 20.

Step 20 describes the creation of a binary image from the gray-scale image using the found threshold. Touch regions are represented by the value 255 and the background is represented by the value 0. Step 21 prompts the list of found blobs in the image. Initially no blobs should be found.

Step 22 directs the algorithm to isolate one blob from the image. The current routine finds a blob by searching from left-to-right and from top-to-bottom. If two blobs have the same upper extent, then the one on the left will be found. The algorithm then changes the value of the pixels of the found blob from 255 to another value used for indication (for example a value of 128) to prevent their detection in the next blob search by segmentation.

The algorithm indicates if the segmentation routine does not find a blob, as directed in Step 23, which can be used to terminate the segmentation loop for finding and characterizing blobs. If no blobs are found, the algorithm is directed to skip Steps 24 to 27 in favor of Step 28. Note that it is possible that no accepted blobs are found in the image.

The blob is qualified as a potential touch region in Step 24 and Step 26. Step 24 qualifies the area of the blob as being a reasonable size anticipated for a finger tip. If other parts of the hand are anticipated to contact the sensor, then other qualifying criteria for area can be incorporated for these parts.

If a blob is detected, Step 24 describes checking it to insure that its area is within acceptable limits. If the area is too small, the detection may be something other than a touch region, such as noise or a fingernail touch. The detected blob is also checked to insure that it does not touch the edge of the image, which may cause a loss of shape that could lead to touch region pose calculation errors. If the detected blob is not within acceptable limits, it is discarded, in which case the algorithm is prompted to return to further segmenting the image in search of the next blob.

In Step 25, an ellipse is calculated with parameters from the segmentation routine (zeroth, first, and second moments). This equivalent ellipse is characterized by the lengths of its major and minor axes; elongation, which is the ratio of the major to minor axes lengths; and the angle of the major axis with respect to the X-direction.

Step 26 qualifies the blob as not being so elongated as not to be reasonable to anticipate for a finger, finger tip, etc. by checking the blob's elongation against limits. For example, if a user were to place a whole finger lengthwise on the touch panel, it could be rejected. It is theoretically impossible for elongation to be less than 1. However, because of quantization errors and round-off effects, it is possible for a number less than 1 to be returned. Also, in the present embodiment any elongation greater than 5 is ignored. A limit (such as a value of 5) can be based upon empirical data and might be changed and/or optimized as more users are tested.

Step 27 calculates projections, which are described in the next section. In Step 28, projected data is used to calculate additional statistics characterizing the blob. These statistics are the skew and kurtosis in the direction of the equivalent ellipse major axis and in the direction of the equivalent ellipse minor axis. Step 29 prompts the algorithm to determine the number of pixels for each quadrant that exceed the boundary of the equivalent ellipse, and the number of pixels of the blob that do not cover the equivalent ellipse. In Step 30, the acceptable blob (touch region) and its characteristics are merged into the list of established touch regions.

After the merge, operation returns to Step 22 to segment the next blob, or continues (via path “A”) to Step 31 (FIG. 6) if the segmentation is deemed complete. Step 31 describes that when segmentation completes, the algorithm compares each of the blobs in the list of retained blobs and the list of tracked blobs against each other until they have all been compared. In the case that a blob does not match a tracked blob, Step 32 creates a new tracked blob. In the case that a blob matches a tracked blob, Step 33 merges its data into the data of the matching tracked blob. The blob, together with its associated characteristics, are merged into the blob list and bubble sorted by value of area. Accordingly, if there are more than a maximum permitted number of blobs detected, the largest blobs will be retained in the list. Step 34 directs the algorithm to delete any blobs in the list of tracked blobs that do not continue into the current image. Step 35 prompts the Find Blob Motion to exit.

Segmenting

Next considered is an algorithm for segmentation of a blob or touch region.

The segment function of step 22 is expanded In FIG. 6. The loop and tail encompassing Step 22 shown in FIG. 5 through Step 34 shown in FIG. 6 supports multi-touch capability. FIG. 6 depicts an algorithm for segmentation of a blob or touch region. A four-way connectivity region growing can be used, although other approaches, such as six-way connectivity, eight-way connectivity, boundary tracing, etc. could alternatively be used. The region growing approach can be additionally augmented to include calculation of attributes of the touch region.

Step 36 starts the procedure of an example approach. Step 37 initiates a new search for a blob. A “first pixel” with a pixel value of 255 indicates that a new blob is found. The search proceeds from right-to left and from top-to-bottom. Step 38 tests the search result to determine whether a “first pixel” is found, or whether the search stopped at the end of the image. If no “first pixel” is found, Step 39 ends the segmentation with no blob found.

If a “first pixel” is found, Step 40 describes how its pixel value is changed from 255 to another value, for example 128. This change indicates that the “first pixel” has been found and includes it in the found region. Initialization of variables for the new blob takes place. These variable include area (in pixels), minimum and maximum X and Y coordinates (which form the bounding box), and the accumulators for determining the statistical moments.

Step 41 directs the algorithm to test the blob for the availability of a “target pixel”. Initially this will be the “first pixel”, but later it will be one of a number of pixels that have been identified as being part of the blob. If a “target pixel” is not found, the algorithm skips Steps 42, 43, and 44, in favor of Step 45.

If a “target pixel” is identified, Step 42 directs the algorithm to update information about the blob that includes the maximum X coordinate, the minimum X coordinate, the maximum Y coordinate, the minimum Y coordinate, the area, and accumulators for statistical moments.

Step 43 involves examining the “target pixel's” four closest neighbors to see if any of them have a value of 255. Each neighboring pixel having value of 255 is saved for inclusion, and its value is changed to 128 to prevent being included a second time. Again the maximum and minimum values of X and Y are updated, and if the “target pixel” is at the edge of the blob, it is flagged as such. In the case that a “target pixel” is an edge pixel, Step 44 prompts the algorithm to add its coordinates to the list of edge pixels for the blob, and the count of the blob's edge pixels is updated as well. The algorithm then loops to Step 41 to test for a new “target pixel”. If there is none, the flow passes to Step 45. In Step 45, the accumulators for statistics are divided as appropriate by the associated area value so as to normalize them for subsequent use. Step 46 concludes the segmentation procedure for one blob.

Example of Use of Projections and Advantageous Novel Forms

As described earlier, Step 27 of FIGS. 5 a and 5 b invoke a projection function that is now expanded upon on FIG. 7, which depicts an an algorithm for using projections to extract features of a touched region.

While projections are a common image processing technique, this approach is unique in that it divides the touch region into quadrants and extracts projections for each quadrant. In this novel implementation, projections are used to calculate the skew and kurtosis of the touch region in the directions of the major and minor axes of the equivalent ellipse. The number of pixels indicating tactile touch or proximity activity outside the fitted ellipse boundary (“excessive”) and the number of pixels indicating tactile touch or proximity activity of the fitted ellipse that are not covered by the touch region are accumulated (“deficient”).

The routine uses projections as a way to extract features of a touch region. For a binary image, the projection in a direction is an array of counts of sensor locations indicating tactile touch or proximity activity (for example, having a value set to 128 after segmentation) that are perpendicular to the direction. For example, the classic vertical projection is compiled in the X direction by counting the number of light pixels in each column (Y direction). Alternatively a “non-binary” or “gray-scale” version of projections wherein the projection is calculated as the sum of non-binary image array values is used rather than a count of pixels.

Projections are accumulated by quadrants of the touch region. Quadrants are determined by the major and minor axes of the equivalent ellipse as located at the touch region's centroid. Assuming the major axis runs vertically, quadrant 1 is in the lower right fourth of the touch region, quadrant 2 is in the lower left fourth of the touch region, quadrant 3 is in the upper right fourth of the touch region, and quadrant 4 is in the upper left fourth of the touch region.

With reference to FIG. 7, Step 47 begins the projections function. Step 48 directs the algorithm to find the partial (quadrant) projection for quadrant 1. Pixels with values=128 (the value after segmentation as described in this embodiment) are included. Each included pixel's value is changed after inclusion (e.g., set to 127 in the embodiment described) so that it will not be included in subsequent projections. In Step 49, the difference is calculated between the projection for quadrant 1 and the same quadrant of the equivalent ellipse. The algorithm finds the number of pixels in the projection that lie outside the equivalent ellipse (excess) and the number of pixels in the projection that do not fill the ellipse (deficient). Step 50 merges the quadrant 1 projection into the projection for the major axis.

Step 51 directs the algorithm to find the partial projection for quadrant 2. In Step 52, the difference is calculated between the projection for quadrant 2 and the same quadrant of the equivalent ellipse. Step 53 merges the quadrant 2 projection into the projection for the major axis.

Step 54 directs the algorithm to find the partial projection for quadrant 3. In Step 55, the difference is calculated between the projection for quadrant 3 and the same quadrant of the equivalent ellipse. Step 56 merges the quadrant 3 projection into the projection for the major axis.

Step 57 directs the algorithm to find the partial projection for quadrant 4. In Step 58, the difference is calculated between the projection for quadrant 4 and the same quadrant of the equivalent ellipse. Step 59 merges the quadrant 4 projection into the projection for the major axis.

Step 60 prompts the algorithm to compute the projection in the direction of the minor axis by using four successive invocations of the partial projection for each of the four quadrants. Step 61 exits the projection routine.

Tracking

As seen earlier, Step 32 on FIG. 5 b is directed to a tracking function. That tracking function is now expanded upon on FIG. 8. More specifically, FIG. 8 shows an algorithm for initiating the tracking of a new contiguous region of tactile contact (“blob”) in a tactile image. This largely involves initialization and transfer of data. Two unique aspects employed here are the constraint of the touch region angle Step 67, and the calculation of the parabola (for example, using the approach taught in pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/038,372 “Curve-fitting Approach to HDTP Parameter Extraction”) in Step 68.

Referring to FIG. 8, Step 62 begins the initiation of an example procedure for initiating a new tracked blob. Step 63 directs the algorithm to find an unused pointer in the array of pointers to tracked blobs. Unused pointers can, for example, be set to a NULL value. Step 64 creates a new blob object and puts its pointer into the list.

Step 65 involves copying the blob's parameters from the list of found blobs into the new blob. The blob's parameters are shown in Table 3 below.

TABLE 3 Copied Blob Parameters Area X centroid Y centroid Equivalent ellipse major axis length Equivalent ellipse minor axis length Angle of the equivalent ellipse Elongation (ratio of major to minor axis lengths) The skew in the direction of the major axis The kurtosis in the direction of the major axis The skew in the direction of the minor axis The kurtosis in the direction of the minor axis The differences (deficient and excess pixels) between the blob and the equivalent ellipse for each quadrant

Step 66 initializes certain values in the blob object, for example:

a. The image number—essential for tracking blobs from image to image

b. The image count is set to 1 (this is the first image for that blob)

c. The start time as read in from the image file

d. The elapsed time is set to zero

In Step 67, an angle parameter (for example, the yaw angle) can be constrained to be in a pre-specified range (for example ±45° or other range deemed reasonable for the system or application). However if the eccentricity of the touch region shape changes from an ellipse of an initial major axis/minor axis orientation through a circle to an ellipse with the major and minor axes interchanged, the brute-force calculated angle will jump by 90 degrees. This is a physically unreasonable condition, but can be compensated for by tracking and subsequent post processing.

Step 68 directs the algorithm to fit parabolas to the left and right side of the touch point using the saved edge points. The coordinates are shifted to represent a horizontal array so that they can be fit to the equation of the equivalent ellipse. The function can also be configured to calculate and provide other values, for example such as a distance between the fitted parabola curve and the blob centroid.

Step 69 ends the initiation of the new tracked blob.

Merging

As seen earlier, Step 33 on FIG. 5 b is directed to a merging function. Step 33 is expanded upon in FIG. 9. FIG. 9 depicts an algorithm for merging parameters associated with or calculated from a newly found contiguous region of tactile contact (“found blob”) in a tactile image with those of a previously tracked contiguous region of tactile contact (“tracked blob”) in the tactile image.

FIG. 9 depicts aspects of a number of heuristics. Filtering and heuristics associated with steps 73, 76, 77, 80, 81, 82, 83, 84, and 85 are expanded upon on further in FIGS. 10, and 11 a and 11 b discussed in the sections to follow. In FIG. 9, steps 71, 74, and 75 correspond to associated steps in FIG. 9 where the touch region data structure is initialized. The determination of yaw (step 78), pitch (step 86), and roll (step 87) are all calculated accordingly.

Referring to FIG. 9 depicting the merging of a blob, Step 70 starts the process. In Step 71, the algorithm transfers the parameters from the matching found blob into the tracked blob. These parameters can include area, X centroid, Y centroid, major axis, minor axis, angle, elongation, image number, major skew, major kurtosis, minor skew, minor kurtosis, and the quad data representing the touch point and ellipse differences.

Step 72 prompts the algorithm to increment the image count. The elapsed time is updated based on the start time of the tracked blob and the time that the found blob was merged into the tracked blob.

Step 73 filters the area parameter.

Step 74 involves retrieving a constrained version of the angle that is limited to ±45°. This is based on the presumption that it is physically impractical for the user to go beyond this limit. It is possible continuing work will change this constraint.

Step 75 fits parabolas to the edge pixels. Step 76 filters the parabola data. Step 77 filters the constrained angle.

Step 78 sets the yaw angle equal to a constrained angle. Step 79 obtains angle corrected coordinates.

Step 80 filters the X centroid data. Step 81 filters the Y centroid data.

Step 82 filters the elongation. Note that it is unnecessary to filter the major and minor axes lengths. Step 83 filters the skew in the direction of the major axis, and filters the skew in the direction of the minor axis.

Step 84 filters the kurtosis in the direction of the major axis, and filters the kurtosis in the direction of the minor axis.

Step 85 filters the quad data, which consists of the deficient and excess pixels for each quadrant of the blob (touch point).

Step 86 prompts the algorithm to determine a pitch angle. The current heuristic is the change in the local Y coordinate (angle corrected) multiplied by a scale factor (currently −0.5) multiplied by the square root of the filtered area divided by pi. Note that the square root of the area divided by pi is the equivalent radius.

Step 87 prompts the algorithm to determine a roll angle. The current heuristic is the change in the local X coordinate (angle corrected) multiplied by a scale factor (currently 1.0) multiplies by the square root of the filtered area divided by pi. Note that the square root of the area divided by pi is the equivalent radius.

Step 88 involves checking the validity of all parameters. This indicates valid filtered data for all parameters.

Step 89 concludes the routine to merge found blob data into a tracked blob.

Filtering

FIG. 10 depicts an algorithm for filtering of data as provided for by the invention and filters various parameter streams as called out throughout the arrangement depicted in FIG. 10.

Common filters employed in image processing often utilize moving windows in space and/or time. The problem with such filtering approaches is the resulting delay between a finger's current action and the measured action: for example any noticeable delay could cause hand-eye coordination problems for the user.

The approach employed uses a quadratic fit to the trajectory of any given parameter. The time span (number of images or input occurrences or actual elapsed time) is set independently for each parameter. Presently the time span is a constant, but it could be a variable based, say, on the rate of change of a parameter. Once fit, the solution for the quadratic function for the current time is used as a best noise reduced value for the parameter. Other predictive filters, such as the Kalman filter, can also or alternatively be employed.

The example filtering routine starts with Step 90. At step 91, a saved time sequence of data for the parameter that is being filtered is kept [HistoricData]. The data elements in the time sequence are shifted as new data [NewData] is added to the head of the time sequence.

In Step 92, the number of acquired data points is checked. Each parameter has a set number [PointCount] that must be acquired before the data is considered valid. This number is the filter constant or low-pass cut-off. If insufficient data points have been acquired, filtering cannot take place, and the routine exits.

In Step 93, a quadratic fit is made to the data stored in the time sequence array. The number of data points used for the fit is determined by the specified number of data points for that parameter. Both the HistoricData and the corresponding time series are used. In Step 94, the quadratic fit and the current time from the time series are used to calculate a value for the current time. This value serves as the filtered value for the parameter.

Step 95 involves checking to see if the data valid flag is set. If not, this is the first valid filtered data result and the flow proceeds to Step 96. Otherwise Step 96 is skipped and the flow moves to Step 97. At Step 96, the first valid filtered data for the touch region parameter being filtered is made available. It is also stored for use as a base or starting value for subsequent filtering operations of at least the parameter being currently filtered. Step 97 sets a data valid flag to “True” so as to indicate that valid filtered data is available.

Step 98 ends the filtering routine.

Parameter Calculations

FIGS. 11 a and 11 b depict an algorithm for various touch parameter calculations such as the finger yaw angle. The present invention develops an approach involving ellipse-based curve-fitting and the orientation of the resultant major and minor elliptical axes.

The user sits at one side of the touch pad. For a touch pad that uses conventional imaging coordinates, the origin will be in the far left corner from the user. Other touch sensing technologies will have their own coordinates.

The touch region planar orientation (“yaw”) angle is often taken to be the angle of the major axis of the equivalent ellipse. The range of this angle may be limited to +/−45 degrees. The range limitation, which may need to be revised with additional testing, is based on a physical constraint from what is realistically achievable by a user. The rate of change can also be limited and can be based on the assumption that a user cannot move a finger more than a few degrees between tactile image scans. No interpretation of touch region motion would be made from the first tactile contact that invokes the initialization.

The user's finger may be constrained to an angle of +/−45 degrees from the vertical (the direction from the top of the touch pad toward the operator). Such a constraint, in some circumstances, can advantageously benefit from an ability to adjust—for example, a user who is using their right hand might have a useful range of from −90 to perhaps 10 degrees, but a user using their left hand might have a range of −10 to 90 degrees.

In FIGS. 11 a and 11 b, a calculated “raw” angle value (“Angle”) is dictated by the angle of the major axis of the equivalent ellipse with the X axis of the touch sensor. As the finger's pose changes, the equivalent ellipse changes shape. Under some circumstances, the ellipse transitions through a circle with the major and minor axes being exchanged. This results in a very fast jump transition of 90 degrees. Without correction of this angle, determining the change in pose (that is, the change in roll, pitch, and yaw) would have errors.

A first corrective step is to rotate the angle in steps of 90 degrees until it within the prescribed range (+/−45 degrees). At each rotation, there is a corresponding reinterpretation of which axis of the equivalent ellipse is the major axis and the minor axis. Consequently, the elongation value must be inverted for each adjustment.

A second corrective step accepts that the resulting change in angle cannot change abruptly from its previous value in the interval between reading the touch sensor. That interval could be taken to be fixed temporal value (for example 1/60th of a second), a scan interval duration, a multiple of a scan interval duration, etc. In the corrective step, unless it is the first time the touch region has been detected, the angle is further constrained to be within +/−45 degrees of the previous angle. The angle is adjusted in increments of 90 degrees until it is within this range of the previous angle. The elongation is inverted for each change of 90 degrees. This adjustment can provide a final angle that is outside the previously prescribed +/−45 degree range. Additionally, if it is not the first occurrence of the touch region, the preceding step can be eliminated and the angle only adjusted to be within +/−45 degrees of prior touch region angle.

The terms “certain embodiments”, “an embodiment”, “embodiment”, “embodiments”, “the embodiment”, “the embodiments”, “one or more embodiments”, “some embodiments”, and “one embodiment” mean one or more (but not all) embodiments unless expressly specified otherwise. The terms “including”, “comprising”, “having” and variations thereof mean “including but not limited to”, unless expressly specified otherwise. The enumerated listing of items does not imply that any or all of the items are mutually exclusive, unless expressly specified otherwise. The terms “a”, “an” and “the” mean “one or more”, unless expressly specified otherwise.

While the invention has been described in detail with reference to disclosed embodiments, various modifications within the scope of the invention will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in this technological field. It is to be appreciated that features described with respect to one embodiment typically can be applied to other embodiments.

The invention can be embodied in other specific forms without departing from the spirit or essential characteristics thereof. The present embodiments are therefore to be considered in all respects as illustrative and not restrictive, the scope of the invention being indicated by the appended claims rather than by the foregoing description, and all changes which come within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are therefore intended to be embraced therein.

Although exemplary embodiments have been provided in detail, various changes, substitutions and alternations could be made thereto without departing from spirit and scope of the disclosed subject matter as defined by the appended claims. Variations described for the embodiments may be realized in any combination desirable for each particular application. Thus particular limitations and embodiment enhancements described herein, which may have particular advantages to a particular application, need not be used for all applications. Also, not all limitations need be implemented in methods, systems, and apparatuses including one or more concepts described with relation to the provided embodiments. Therefore, the invention properly is to be construed with reference to the claims. 

1. A method for determining the position of one or more touches on a touch sensor, the method comprising: receiving values from a grid of touch sensing elements, wherein the values are responsive to a first touch on a touch sensitive surface of the touch sensor; converting the received values to binary data in which each of the received values of each of the touch sensing elements is assigned one of two values; identifying at least one first contiguous touched region from the binary data; extracting a plurality of parameters for each first contiguous touched region wherein the plurality of parameters are responsive to the shape and position of each contiguous touched region; determining whether each of the first contiguous touched regions is valid by comparing at least one of the extracted parameters to established values; receiving values from a second touch, converting the values of the received second touch data into binary data, identifying at least one second contiguous touched reason, extracting the parameters from the binary data of the second touch, and determining whether the binary data of the second touch is valid wherein the first touch immediately precedes the second touch; linking the first with the second contiguous touched regions thereby creating a temporal series of parameters that are responsive to the shape and position of each of the first and the second contiguous touched regions; and filtering the temporal series of parameters to remove noise.
 2. The method of claim 1 wherein yaw angles are determined for each of the first and the second contiguous touched regions from the filtered temporal series of parameters.
 3. The method of claim 2 wherein the yaw angles are constrained to a predetermined range of angles.
 4. The method of claim 1 wherein the filtering does not introduce delay into the temporal series parameters
 5. The method of claim 1, further comprising approximating each of the first and second contiguous touched regions with ellipses thereby creating a first and a second ellipse.
 6. The method of claim 5 further comprising identifying excess data defined by the first and second contiguous touched regions exceeding their respective ellipses.
 7. The method of claim 5 further comprising identifying deficient data defined by the first and second ellipses exceeding their respective contiguous touched regions.
 8. The method of claim 1, further comprising fitting parabolas to opposite sides of the first and second ellipses.
 9. The method of claim 8 wherein the parabolas are aligned with major and minor axes of the first and the second ellipses.
 10. The method of claim 1 wherein converting the received values to binary data uses an adaptive threshold. 